For parents · Step by step
Getting started: what to expect
Here’s everything that happens, from your first call to your child’s first session. No surprises, and no question is too small.
The short version
Four steps, and we walk you through each one
Reach out
Call us, or ask your child’s doctor to send a referral.
Evaluation
A licensed therapist looks at your child’s skills and writes a full report.
A plan made with you
We set goals around what matters most to your family.
Therapy where it works
In our clinic, at home, or at preschool, year-round, with flexible scheduling.
Before you call
A few things we want every parent to know
You don’t need a diagnosis
You don’t need a label or a test result to call us. If something about your child worries you, that’s reason enough. The CDC says the same thing: a diagnosis isn’t needed to start getting help.
It’s not your fault
Lots of kids need help with talking, eating, or moving. It’s common, and it’s no one’s fault. Needing help just means your child learns in their own way.
Asking early helps
Maybe someone told you to “wait and see.” You can still call. Asking early is one of the most helpful things you can do. If your child doesn’t need therapy, we’ll tell you.
You don’t have to know what kind of therapy
Not sure if it’s occupational therapy or speech therapy? That’s okay. Just tell us what you’ve noticed. We’ll help figure out what fits.
Step 1
The first call
The call is short and friendly. You’ll most likely talk with our front desk team.
We’ll ask
A few simple questions
- How old your child is
- What you’ve noticed, in your own words
- Your insurance. Have the card handy if you can.
- Where therapy would work best: clinic, home, or preschool
You can ask us
Anything at all
- Does my insurance cover this?
- How soon can my child be seen?
- Who will work with my child?
- Can therapy happen at home or at preschool?
What happens next
We do the paperwork
We check your child’s insurance benefits for you. Then we call you back to set up the evaluation. A doctor’s order is required for services billed through insurance. We’ll tell you if yours does.
Say your name, your phone number, and a good time to reach you, and we’ll get back to you. To keep your child’s information private, please call instead of emailing health details.
Step 2
The evaluation
An evaluation is a first visit where a therapist gets to know your child. To your child, it mostly feels like play.
A licensed therapist leads it. They watch your child play and try simple activities, like stacking blocks, naming pictures, or climbing. This shows what your child does well and where they need help.
The therapist will also ask you questions, because you know your child best.
When we can see your child depends on matching your family’s schedule with a therapist’s openings. We’ll go through what’s available when you call.
What to bring
- Your child’s insurance card
- Any past reports, like an IEP (a school plan) or an IFSP (an early intervention plan)
- A list of your questions. It’s easy to forget them in the moment.
- A favorite toy or comfort item, if it helps your child feel safe
Steps 3 and 4
After the evaluation
A report in plain words
The therapist writes a full report. We go over it with you and explain any terms. You’ll know what we found and why it matters.
A plan made with you
Together, we set goals around what matters most to your family. That might be eating dinner together, getting dressed, or being understood.
Therapy where it works
In our clinic, at home, or at preschool, private school, or childcare. Your therapist will suggest a schedule that fits your child.
We see children year-round with flexible scheduling, in New Hanover, Brunswick, Columbus, Pender, and Sampson counties.
Your role
You’re part of the team
Your child spends a short time with us each week, and much more time with you. That’s why your part matters so much.
Your therapist will show you what they’re working on. They’ll also teach you simple ways to practice at home. This is called parent coaching.
It’s not homework. It’s small changes to things you already do, like bath time, snack time, or getting in the car. That way, progress keeps going between visits.
What that can look like
- Naming foods out loud while you make lunch
- Letting your child zip their own coat, with a little help
- A calm-down routine before bedtime
- Asking your therapist questions any time
Already getting therapy at school or through early intervention? Your child can get private therapy with us too.
Insurance & cost
Paying for therapy
We accept most major insurance plans. Call and we'll verify your child's benefits before the first visit.
We check your benefits first
Before the first visit, we call your insurance for you. We’ll tell you what’s covered and what you might owe. That way you know before you come.
You’ll need a doctor’s order
A doctor’s order is required for services billed through insurance. Ask your child’s doctor to fax one to us at 910-313-2119, or call us and we’ll walk you through it.
Medicaid
[Confirm: Do we accept NC Medicaid and Medicaid managed care plans?]
No insurance, or not using it?
Call and ask — we’ll go over your options and what it would cost. You also have the right to a Good Faith Estimate, explained below.
Questions parents ask
Common questions
Do I need a diagnosis or a doctor’s referral?
You don’t need a diagnosis to call us. A doctor’s order is required for services billed through insurance — call us and we’ll walk you through getting one.
Is my child too young or too old?
Probably not. We see infants through teens. If you have a worry, it’s never too early or too late to ask.
How long is the wait?
We’re accepting new patients. How soon your child is seen depends on matching your family’s schedule with a therapist’s openings, so call and we’ll go through what’s available.
Will my insurance cover it?
We accept most major insurance plans. Call and we’ll verify your child’s benefits before the first visit, so you’ll know what’s covered.
Can my child get therapy at preschool or at home?
Yes. Therapy can happen in our clinic, at your home, or at preschool, private school, or childcare. We’ll help you pick what works best for your child.
My child already gets therapy at school. Can they also come here?
Yes. Children can get private therapy with us alongside school or early intervention services.
How often will my child need therapy?
It depends on your child. After the evaluation, your therapist will suggest a schedule that fits.
Can I see the clinic first?
Yes. You’re welcome to come look around — call ahead so we can set up a time to show you the clinic.
Is it my fault my child needs help?
No. Lots of kids need help with talking, eating, or moving. It’s common, and it’s no one’s fault. Asking for help is a great step for your child.
What if it turns out my child doesn’t need therapy?
We’ll tell you honestly. We’ll also give you ideas to try at home.
Whenever you’re ready
Ready when you are
One call is all it takes to start. We’ll take it from there.
- Address
- 2116 Capital Dr, Suite 100
Wilmington, NC 28405 - Hours
- Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Fax
- 910-313-2119 (doctor referrals)